Student Loans

Federal Direct Stafford Loan Program

Know the Two Types of Stafford Loans

A subsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loan is a fixed-rate, low-interest loan based on financial need. Students who borrow a subsidized loan will not be charged interest on the loan while they are enrolled at least half time (6 credit hours or more).

An unsubsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loan is not based on financial need. The student is charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full.

Private Education Loans

There are some instances when a student may not qualify for a Direct Loan. In these circumstances, there are private education loans available to students from private banks and credit unions. The Financial Aid Office certifies the amount a student can borrow, based on their cost of attendance and estimated financial assistance.

BE AWARE: UNSOLICITED LOAN OFFERS

Student loan debt can accumulate quickly and result in a lifetime burden of high payments and credit denials for automobile purchases, credit cards, and home mortgages. To avoid these problems, read and understand the terms and conditions of all loans.

Students are encouraged to borrow from the Federal Direct Stafford Loan Program if they can, which has more favorable interest rates and repayment options.